Abstract
M.Ed.
This study is concerned with the experiences of Grade Eight African learners
attending a school in Lenasia where English is the medium of instruction.
Multilingualism is prevalent in the multiracial society in which we live. Since the
adoption of the language policy by the new democratic government, South African
schools now have the right to choose their language of instruction. The experiences
of the Grade Eight African learners and the choice of English as the medium of
instruction and the rationale behind this choice was investigated. The increasing
number of functions that English plays in our lives, as well as, the role played by,
and the importance of, home languages in our lives, were explored. The role that
English and home languages play when, or if, used simultaneously to bring about
positive changes, was researched. This study was an attempt to ensure that all
languages are appreciated for the part they play in our lives., as well as the
empowerment they bring about in our culturally different communities.
This research design used has its origin in the nature of the research problem
"What are the experiences of grade eight African second language learners
attending an English medium school in Lenasia?" The research methods chosen for
this study emerged from both the research orientation and the aim of the study.
This research study discusses the experiences experienced by learners, being taught
through the medium of English. Problems which are partially caused by the use of
the vernacular is further explored. Insight into how these negative experiences of
learners and their low self-esteem could be minimised was investigated, and
recommendations were suggested. Learners' perceptions on activities and
curriculum, which will assist in the improvement of English, were also determined.
The use of home languages and their values in the learners' lives was researched.
The role of home languages in the community as well as at school, together with
English spoken at home and at school was determined. The programmes and
methods, which can be utilised to ensure the proximal use the vernacular and
English, were reflected through the approaches suggested by different scholars, and
by the literature review. These approaches are explained and discussed to ensure a
clear understanding of the research study being investigated.